Michael Eisner, Disney's CEO from 1984 to 2005 (overlapping briefly with Kimmel's 2003 debut), publicly slammed the decision on September 19, 2025, via a post on X (formerly Twitter). At 83, Eisner—who helped transform Disney into a global powerhouse through acquisitions like ABC and ESPN—didn't name Iger directly but took clear shots at current leadership for lacking "backbone" against "bullies." His full post read:
"Where has all the leadership gone? If not for university presidents, law firm managing partners, and corporate chief executives standing up against bullies, who then will step up for the first amendment? The ‘suspending indefinitely’ of Jimmy Kimmel immediately after the Chairman of the FCC’s aggressive yet hollow threatening of the Disney Company is yet another example of out-of-control intimidation. Maybe the Constitution should have said, ‘Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, except in one’s political or financial self-interest.' By-the-way, for the record, this ex-CEO finds Jimmy Kimmel very talented and funny."
Eisner's remarks mark a shift from his support for Iger just a year ago, when he backed him against activist investor Nelson Peltz's proxy fight, calling disruption "playing with fire."
Their history is complex: Eisner was ousted in a 2004 shareholder revolt that paved the way for Iger, but they've maintained a cordial relationship since. This criticism adds weight, as Eisner is a "Disney Legend" whose era is often romanticized for bold moves like the ABC merger.
Public and Industry Reaction: Eisner's post quickly amplified the backlash, with X users and media outlets sharing it widely. For instance, the New York Post highlighted it as a "veiled swipe," while outlets like The Wrap and Deadline noted it strains Iger's legacy. Other reactions include:
